University of Utah

The University of Utah (also The U or the U of U) was established by Mormon leader Brigham Young. Initially named "University of Deseret" in Salt Lake City, Utah on February 28, 1850, the school was closed two years later for financial reasons. It reopened as a commercial school in 1867 in the old Council House in what is now downtown Salt Lake City under the direction of Elder David O. Calder, a prominent Salt Lake City businessman and associate of Mormon prophet Brigham Young. The University was renamed University of Utah in 1894 and classes were first held on the present campus approximately two miles directly east of downtown Salt Lake City in 1900.

Olympics

In 2002, the University hosted some Winter Olympic events, including the opening and closing ceremonies. Prior to the events, the University received a facelift that included extensive renovations to Rice-Eccles Stadium, a light rail track leading to downtown Salt Lake City and an array of new student housing (used by the Olympic athletes) at nearby Fort Douglas.

Related Topics:
2002 - Winter Olympic events - Rice-Eccles Stadium - Light rail - Fort Douglas

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